Some schools remained unconvinced because of pressures on curriculum time, lack of specialist expertise, concerns about taking risks and fear of litigation.

The chief inspector, David Bell, said: "The benefits of outdoor education are far too important to forfeit, and by far outweigh the risks of an accident occurring.

"If teachers follow recognised safety procedures and guidance they have nothing to fear from the law."

Concerns

But teachers' unions say this is not so. One of the biggest, the NASUWT, advises its members to avoid school trips.

Following the procedures and guidance is no protection against litigation

Chris KeatesNASUWT teachers' union

Its general secretary, Chris Keates, said Mr Bell had failed to grasp "the reality of what actually happens when accidents occur".

"As NASUWT casework has demonstrated time and time again, following the procedures and guidance is no protection against litigation.

"Fortunately, the government is now taking our concerns seriously, having recognised that the demise of the concept of the genuine accident and the rise of the blame culture has left teachers and schools vulnerable," she added.

Talks were going on to analyse the problems and identify possible solutions to protect staff.

These followed a pledge by the Education Secretary, Charles Clarke, to the union's conference in April, when he said: "I am a firm believer in being able to offer children some form of residential experience."

A spokesperson for his department said: "We believe our guidance on outdoor activities achieves the right balance, by helping schools assess and manage the risks so that the educational objectives of the visit can more easily be achieved."

Accident claims had declined in 2003-04, and there was little evidence to support the idea that compensation claims were rising in the UK.